If you’ve ever seen a Native American, one of their features that will always strike you is their long, luscious hair. Photos of them taken from a century ago will show you that even the elderly had thick and dark hair that had not turned white, even despite their age.

Do you want to know their secret?

It’s an easy enough answer that is not uncommon to the lives of the indigenous people of America and Alaska. They considered their locks an important part of who they were. Their hair represented the kind of life they were living. They were very respectful of nature and treated her with great care and love.

They didn’t apply any of these new products and shampoos full of chemicals and artificial ingredients. They were very proud of their hair and their different ways of styling it because each technique was a representation of an aspect of their lives and an aspect of their spirituality. There are many ancient techniques that have been passed down from generation to generation that help them keep their hair lustrous, voluminous and beautiful.

Keep reading to find out more about these techniques!

1. Aloe Vera

A moisturizing lotion readily found in nature, Native Americans use it to protect both their locks and their skin from the hot summer and the cold winters. In addition, it softens the hair and it makes it healthier. When eaten, it improves immunity and removes toxins. It was part of their daily diet and it kept them energized and fit for their active lifestyle. There are even more benefits that come from aloe vera, which we know about today, but it looks like we’re a little late because the indigenous people of America have known about them for centuries.

2. Saw Palmetto

A plant that is native to North America, it is very nutritious and also possesses medicinal properties. Its fruit is a bright crimson berry which, when dried for some time, can be grounded and added to dyes, teas, and balms. These were all used on hair to make it stronger and to prevent dryness of the scalp which would later cause dandruff. Palmetto also prevents production of the hormone that induces balding. It can be eaten or applied on the scalp and it contributes a lot to keeping the hair of the Native Americans as healthy as it is.

The genetic trait of balding occurs when testosterone becomes DHT and this plant prevents that process from taking place. This process is the reason for most men balding and for a few women as well. It is found easily enough in America and the indigenous tribes made very good use of it to prevent hair fall. Nettles grow everywhere so there was no need to cultivate them. They would just pluck it and create lotions and make teas. It also contains vitamins K, B and C. The amino acids found in the plant are a good source of protein.

4. Controlled washes and styling for protection

They don’t believe in washing their hair and applying products every single day and this keeps hair more relaxed and allowing it to grow. They also keep their hair in braids which is a style that protects the hair and keeps you from messing with it too much. While there were elaborates styles for special occasions, braids were usual for normal days. This is an easy enough thing to do but many people today don’t pay attention to this advice. While balding can be genetic, many lose their hair because they wear it out by using too many products.

5. Rosemary

As an ingredient in cooking, rosemary has been in use all over the world. But not many know that it is really good for hair. It increases blood flow to the head which helps the hair grow. It also prevents hair from turning white and Native Americans would use it in oil in order to apply it on their hair and scalp.

All around the Earth, we have found different plants that can be used as medicine. We need to understand how precious these gifts from nature are and protect them so that they may help protect us.